Sevens has a special charm that brings people together and is simple to learn, quick to play, and enjoyable for players of all ages. It is a perfect choice for a family gathering, hanging out with friends, or simply looking for a fun way to pass the time. Let’s dive in and learn to play Sevens!

❥ DIFFICULTY: Easy

❥ PLAY TIME: 15 - 30 minutes

❥ NO. OF PLAYERS: 2 - 8 players

❥ NO. OF DECKS: 1 deck (remove jokers)

❥ SETUP

• Deal the Cards: Shuffle the deck and deal all the cards equally among the players. Some players may have one card more than others if the cards don't divide evenly, which is fine.

• Start with the 7 of Hearts: The player with the 7 of Hearts places it in the center of the table to begin the game.

❥ OBJECTIVE

The goal of Sevens is to be the first to get rid of all your cards by playing them in sequence, starting with the 7s and building up or down the suits.

❥ HOW TO PLAY

❥ Turn Order: The Player to the left of the Player who placed the 7 of Hearts plays second, and the play proceeds clockwise from there.

❥ Starting a Sequence

• There will be four sequences - one for each suit (Hearts, Clubs, Diamonds and Spades). A sequence is made by laying cards down one by one next to the seven in sequential order.

• The player with the 7 of Hearts starts the Hearts Sequence that begins the game. To start a new sequence, a player can play any other 7 (Clubs, Diamonds, or Spades) when it's their turn.

❥ Building the Sequence

• A player can only play cards adjacent in rank to the cards already on the table within the same suit. For example, if the 7 of Diamonds is in play, the next possible cards are the 6 or 8 of Diamonds.

• If the 8 is played, the 9 can follow, and so on, until the Ace or King completes the sequence.

• A whole sequence will look like this: A-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-J-Q-K

❥ No Play? Pass!

• If you cannot play any card from your hand, you must say "Pass" to pass your turn.

• You may not intentionally pass if you have a playable card.

❥ WINNING A ROUND

The first player to play all their cards wins the round. The remaining players tally the points left in their hands:

• Ace: 1 point each

• Number cards 2 through 10: Face value (e.g., a 5 is worth 5 points).

• Jack: 11 points each

• Queen: 12 points each

• King: 13 points each

  
  

❥ WINNING THE GAME

Play multiple rounds, keeping a running score. The player with the lowest score after a set number of rounds (or when someone reaches a predetermined score, such as 500) wins the game.

❥ TIPS AND STRATEGIES

• Play Wisely: Save cards that might block others from continuing their sequences, forcing them to pass.

• Watch the Table: Keep an eye on the cards being played to anticipate your next move.

• Plan Ahead: If you have multiple options, think about which card to play to maximize your chances in later turns.

  
  

Now that you know how to play Sevens, gather your friends or family, grab a deck of cards, and dive into this delightful game. With its mix of strategy, luck, and social interaction, Sevens is sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Happy Playing!